This year’s Big Butterfly Count runs from the 17th July until the 9th August 2026.

The citizen science survey is organised by Butterfly Conservation each year, and the Swanage Railway is encouraging visitors to take part as they enjoy the Purbeck countryside.

The survey aims to help monitor the health of the environment by assessing the presence of butterflies and moths across a range of habitats.

The Swanage Railway provides an opportunity to travel through a range of habitats with numerous popular species to be spotted.

The Big Butterfly Count app or identification chart can be downloaded for free, and all those taking part have to do is pick a location and spend 15 minutes watching for butterflies and moths.

Species are then recorded through the app or website, and the data will be used for further conservation research and efforts.

Further information can be found here.